NEW BEDFORD FILM FESTIVAL

APRIL 10-13, 2025

Are you ready for the New Bedford Film Festival 2025?

April 10-13, 2025, we will celebrate bold and diverse cinematic stories and storytellers in the whaling city of New Bedford, Massachusetts!

Film lovers and makers, save these dates to experience the New Bedford Film Festival for your first or second time!

We look forward to having you!

2025 Official Selections

Check out New Bedford Film Festival’s Official Selection!

About the NBFF

Sponsors

The 2024 New Bedford Film Festival wrapped its inaugural year in a triumphant bow. Audiences reveled in a diverse film selection, sparking lively discussion and fostering connections between filmmakers and movie lovers.

Historic New Bedford transformed into a celebration of cinematic storytelling infusing within the city's vibrant art scene. NBFF's success paves the way for an even grander event in 2025.

Join us on the South Coast for another year of cinematic magic.

Important Dates

  • February 13, 2025 | Official Selections Announcement, Festival Schedule, and NBFF 2025 Tickets go on sale

  • March 15, 2025 | Nominations Announcement

  • April 10-13, 2025 | 2nd Annual New Bedford Film Festival

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The New Bedford Film Festival showcases authentic and powerful cinematic stories, cultivates emerging storytellers, and promotes the city's growing creative economy.

Located in the vibrant South Coast region of Massachusetts, this annual festival is committed to showcasing diverse human experiences through various formats, including short and feature films, student shorts, music videos, episodic and documentary shorts, and PSA shorts.

The festival, which includes venues such as the New Bedford Harbor Hotel, Steeple Playhouse, Gallery X, and the New Bedford Art Museum, offers screenings and ample space for networking and panel discussions. Attendees are invited to network and celebrate the filmmakers each evening, and different awards are presented.

The opening night event will be held at the Steeple Playhouse, where technical award winners will be recognized during the festivities. The closing Academy-award-style ceremony at Steeple Playhouse will award talent and the top award for each category.

Throughout the day, festival-goers are encouraged to explore the downtown area and take advantage of special promotions offered by local small businesses when presenting their official NBFF badge.

  • “The New Bedford Film Festival is a welcome addition to the city’s thriving arts and culture sector.”

    — Jon Mitchell | Mayor of New Bedford

  • "It’s a great draw for tourism as it attracts visitors to the city while also inspiring pride among the local community as the city’s landmarks and attractions transform into backdrops for local films."

    — Ashley Payne | Director of Tourism and Marketing for the City of New Bedford

  • "Join us in celebrating the vibrant creativity of filmmakers from New Bedford and beyond at our four-day event showcasing amazing screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities. Our goal is to grow New Bedford into an industry powerhouse, providing resources and support for local creators year-round.”

    — Ethan de Aguiar | Founder of New Bedford Film Festival